Full Breakdown
Michelle Wu Maintains Commanding Lead Over Josh Kraft in Boston Mayoral Race
9/6/2025, 9:19:02 PM
Polling Overview: Wu's Dominance
A recent Emerson College Polling survey indicates that incumbent Boston Mayor Michelle Wu holds a significant lead over her main challenger, Josh Kraft, ahead of the preliminary election scheduled for September 9, 2025. The poll shows Wu with 72% support among likely voters, compared to Kraft's 22%, marking a dramatic increase in her support since February, when she led 43% to Kraft's 29%. This represents a 50-point advantage for Wu, solidifying her position as the frontrunner in the race.
Voter Sentiment and Key Issues
The survey reveals that Wu's approval ratings have surged, with 73% of Boston voters viewing her favorably. In contrast, Kraft has only a 26% favorable rating, with 58% of voters expressing an unfavorable view of him. Wu's refusal to abandon Boston's sanctuary city policies has garnered approval from 67% of respondents, while 77% oppose President Donald Trump's proposal to send the National Guard to Boston to combat crime. This sentiment reflects a broader disapproval of Trump's policies among Boston voters, with 48% disapproving of his deployment of the National Guard in the city.
Campaign Dynamics: Kraft's Struggles
Despite Kraft's substantial financial investment in his campaign—approximately $5.5 million—his efforts have not translated into increased voter support. Kraft's campaign has faced challenges, including a recent shakeup in leadership, as he parted ways with two top advisers. His strategy has been criticized for lacking bold initiatives and failing to present a clear contrast to Wu's policies, particularly regarding immigration and housing issues.
Kraft's campaign has also been marked by significant spending on advertisements and outreach, yet he remains unable to close the gap with Wu. His recent financial contributions have raised questions about his reliance on personal wealth, which Wu's campaign has characterized as an attempt to "buy" the election.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Wu, including Kraft, argue that her administration has not adequately addressed pressing issues such as the housing crisis. Kraft has labeled Wu's handling of the redevelopment of White Stadium—a project aimed at creating a venue for Boston's new National Women’s Soccer League team—as a "catastrophic failure," citing a lack of transparency regarding costs. However, Wu's supporters contend that her policies have strengthened community safety and inclusivity.
Official Statements and Responses
In response to the Department of Justice's legal challenge regarding Boston's sanctuary city laws, Wu stated, "This is our city and we will vigorously defend our laws and the constitutional rights of cities." This statement underscores her commitment to maintaining Boston's immigration policies amid federal scrutiny.
What's Next: Upcoming Election
The preliminary election on September 9 will determine which two candidates advance to the general election in November. Alongside Wu and Kraft, other candidates include Robert Cappucci and Domingos DaRosa. With early voting already underway, the outcome of this election will significantly shape the political landscape in Boston.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Over the past seven months, Mayor Wu appears to have made her case for re-election to Boston voters, while Kraft has not been able to expand his support. In February, white voters were split between Kraft and Wu, 39% to 37%; now, they break for Wu 74% to 22%. Wu's margins among minority populations have also grown, increasing seven points among Hispanic voters, from 54% to 61%, climbing to 79% among Black voters, and jumping from 58% to 81% among Asian voters.” — Spencer Kimball, Executive Director of Emerson College Polling
- “If I paid attention to polls, I wouldn’t have gotten involved in this.” — Josh Kraft, Mayoral Candidate
- “Kraft has not advanced any bold initiatives or held Wu’s feet to the fire on major issues.” — Political Analyst
The results of the preliminary election will be closely monitored, as they will set the stage for the November general election and the future direction of Boston's leadership.
